Import script

[JohnCarpmael]

I want some help with a scripting problem, please.

I have an application which I have written in Filiemaker Pro5 and which I have used Filemaker Developer to convert into a stand alone solution.

The application uses 39 seperate files. I have distributed it to a number of users in both Mac and PC format.

I am now ready to upgrade the application. This will involve importing data from the old version into the new version. I need to create scripts to do the import for the users.

I have tried using the

[Vaughan]

I've never run across this problem when importing -- imports can be made from anywhere even the netwrok.

[JohnCarpmael]

Thanks Vaughan

I carry out the import in the new version, importing from the old version. I then set up the script - very simple just:

Import Records [Restore, No Dialog]

When I run the script it asks me to specify the file to import from. I don

[spb]

I'm not certain of this, but this is my best guess based on experience doing a lot of importing. When you specify a file name in the import script step, it memorizes the path to that file at that time. So you'll get an error if you move the file. If you don't, it memorizes both file and path name. One way to get your job done would be to set up your files where they will live and do a manual import of a single record (then delete the record right away fromtarget db). Then open import script and close it again. You'll get a keep or replace prompt, and click "replace" Now the script has memorized the new path and should work correctly indefinitely, until the files get moved again.

Steve Brown

[meancode]

hello,

i have an ivoicing system the same number of files as yours (there abouts anywho) and thought i did not bind them with FMP Developer, i did do this:

on an admin or developer layout i have a 2 buttons, one for Export, and one for Import. what the export does is exports to a tab deliminated file. the Import then imports from that tab deliminated file. i have these tab deliminated files in one folder, out of the way of the other modules in the system. the script works on all the modules, so that you dont have to go to all of these and do it. in every module i have the export and the import scripts, all setup to write to, and find the correct text files. i then string them all together in a master Export, and a master Import script.

the only thing i can think of that your scripts are not remembering the path to the .usr files is you do not have "use relative path" selected. do you have that checked?

[JohnCarpmael]

Steve, thanks for this.

Yes, that is what I have been trying to do and what I had assumed should work. But for some reason I am still bashing my head against the wall. I will try the experiment again to make sure I'm not missing something obvious.

[JohnCarpmael]

Thanks for this.

I like the system you've set up, but it would mean quite a rewrite for me at present.

Your idea about 'use relative path' seems hopeful. Where do I find this option ? I cannot locate it on the import record script step.

All the best

[meancode]

yea, i figured it would mean a lot of re-working your system, but i wanted to through it out there all the same.

in the import records script step, when you click specify, under the Show... popup there is a checkbox "Save relative path only" and i believe it is checked by default. i am using FMP 5.5, and i dont remember how far back this feature goes. are you using FMP 5.5?

[JohnCarpmael]

Ken - many thanks. No, I'm on FMP5 and there is no such checkbox, which I guess means that the Save relative path option was standard at that time. I am thinking more and more that this must be a technical problem, rather than a lack of knowledge !

Not sure where to go from here !

All the best